Although experiencing great success in our programs, the economy has also affected the level of financial support that is needed, as well as depleting the number of volunteers required to continue these contests at the level of excellence we all desire. Please consider assisting us in one way or another. Financial sponsorships are $10 up to $350 for a total budget of $700 for each of these events; we would like to have our budget secured by September 30 to ensure we have the means to continue their promotion.

Danielle McBurnett, the 2010 Arizona Colleen and Rose helped The Irish Shop in Ennis launch Ballymorris Pottery and the Ennis range while visiting Ireland for the Rose of Tralee International Festival. Click here to read The Irish Shop's blog post about the event.

The Waves of Ireland was composed and performed by Danielle McBurnett, the 2010 Arizona Colleen and Rose, for the 2010 Arizona Colleen and Rose of Tralee Selection. Danielle will be representing the Arizona Irish as the Arizona Rose at the 2010 Rose of Tralee regional competition in Ireland in June.

December 18, 2009
By Alexis Hodel as told to Ann Niemann

As the 2009 Arizona Colleen, I am honored to carry the dual title Arizona Rose and to have competed in the 50th annual Rose of Tralee International Festival in County Kerry, Ireland. The 16-day trip in August was one of the most unique and incredible adventures I have ever had. Although I had visited Ireland once before in 2005 for the World Championships of Irish Dancing, this opportunity was a completely new and different experience.

December 9, 2009

The 27th Annual Arizona Colleen and Rose of Tralee Selection invites the Irish Community and friends to attend this year’s grand event. The 2010 Arizona Colleen wins a prize package including $1,000 in scholarships and a trip to Ireland. She serves as a key spokesperson at Irish area events throughout the State and will carry the dual title of Arizona Rose when she competes at the Regionals competition in June that leads to the 51st Annual Rose of Tralee International Festival in County Kerry in Ireland next August. The final nights of judging are televised and represent one of the most watched programs in the country. The International Rose of Tralee wins a year-long world tour.